Did you hear about the new program that started-up in the prison system? It's called 'pillow stuffing.' It's really great, we teach people how to stuff pillows and it only cost the tax payers a few hundred thousand dollars annually!
What's the advantage? What do the inmates do when they get out; get pillow stuffing jobs?
No, don't be ridiculous! They get to feel better about themselves. It's called rehabilitation.
Couldn't they get rehabilitated learning something viable? A needed skill that's in demand so they could be employed after they get out?
Ya, but you miss the point!
Which is?
They get rehabilitated.
???
COMMENT: The market for commercial divers is a limited one. Much of it involves the requirement on the part of an applicant to not have a criminal record. This is a condition of employment for many international companies in the commercial diving sector. Secondly, it is a requirement of the immigration system of most countries (they don't let you in). Let's face the facts; commercial diving in today's current economy is a poor choice for the government to spend tax payer's money.
I also agree that there are too many people with university degrees that fret and struggle over paying their student loans and making enough income for themselves and their children. They can't get a job in their field, so they drive a cab or work in a 7 11, but do pay-back what they borrowed from Society. Why is an Inmate treated differently?
Perhaps more focus should be on "Justice" to all people (even the law abiding ones). I'm not saying not to extend a helping hand, but what's the matter with repayment of a loan for training. Treat EVERY member of society in a fair and equitable manner. Why should anyone NOT have a benefit, solely because they chose to obey the law?